ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - Carilion Clinic plans on expanding Roanoke Memorial Hospital and construct a new 15 story building next door.
It's undeniable how much of an influence Carilion has on the area's landscape, from the hospital to the shops in Crystal Spring.
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"We have some new stores in the neighborhood and a lot of it has to do with Carilion being in the neighborhood," says Jody Fleming, co-owner of Garland's on Crystal Spring.
He says most of the foot traffic is from people in the neighborhood, mostly Carilion employees.
It's an impact that's expected to be magnified with Carilion growing even more which is exciting some city leaders.
"They are our largest employer," says Wayne Bowers, economic development director. "It's always important to facilitate growth of the business here in Roanoke and anytime we hear an announcement like this it's good news for the local economy and Roanoke in general."
Carilion plans on expanding the hospital where the tennis courts are now.
The zoning application states there will be a five story garage and a building ten floors above it for hospital space to replace some older facilities.
Bowers says it's an expansion that could help Roanoke's economy with Norfolk Southern relocating jobs.
"We have a very diverse economy of course we hate to see jobs leave the area but it's always good to see a major employer is expanding and more jobs will be brought here," says Bowers.
The Roanoke Planning Commission will be holding a public hearing in April.